1. Watch for Frozen or Bursting Pipes
Even brief freezing temperatures can cause pipes to expand and crack — especially in crawl spaces, garages, and exterior walls.
Signs of a frozen pipe include:
- No water flow from faucets
- Frost on exposed pipes
- Unusual odors coming from drains
If you suspect frozen pipes, it’s important to act quickly. A small crack can turn into a major flood once temperatures rise.
👉 If you’re dealing with frozen or burst pipes, our team offers
same-day plumbing service and emergency repairs.
2. Protect Your Water Heater During Cold Weather
February is one of the most common months for water heater failures. Cold groundwater temperatures force your system to work harder, especially in older units.
Warning signs your water heater needs attention:
- Inconsistent or lukewarm water
- Rumbling or popping noises
- Rust-colored water
- Sudden loss of hot water
Routine maintenance can extend the life of your unit and prevent unexpected breakdowns.
👉 Learn more about
water heater repair and replacement options here
3. Avoid Drain and Sewer Line Backups
February brings heavier indoor water use — more laundry, showers, and cooking — which can overwhelm drains and sewer lines.
Common causes of winter drain problems:
- Grease and food buildup
- Hair and soap residue
- Tree root intrusion
- Cold weather slowing water flow
Slow drains are often an early warning sign of a bigger issue. Addressing them early can prevent messy and expensive sewer backups.
👉 If you’re experiencing slow or clogged drains,
professional drain cleaning can help.
4. Check Outdoor Plumbing and Hose Bibs
Outdoor plumbing is often forgotten during winter, but February freezes can still damage hose bibs and exterior lines.
What to do now:
- Disconnect hoses
- Inspect outdoor faucets for leaks
- Shut off and drain exterior lines if possible
Catching damage early helps avoid hidden leaks that show up in spring.
5. Know When to Call a Professional Plumber
While some minor plumbing issues can be handled with DIY solutions, winter plumbing problems often require professional expertise.
You should call a licensed plumber if you notice:
- Sudden drops in water pressure
- Water stains or damp spots
- Repeated clogs
- No hot water
- Signs of pipe leaks
Buffington’s Plumbing provides
24/7 emergency plumbing services and fast response times across South Metro Atlanta.
👉
Request service or emergency help here
Serving South Metro Atlanta With Reliable Plumbing Services
Buffington’s Plumbing proudly serves
Brooks, Fayetteville, Peachtree City, Griffin, Newnan, Zebulon, and surrounding communities. Our experienced team is committed to fast response times, honest service, and quality workmanship.
Whether you need routine plumbing maintenance, emergency repairs, or help preparing your home for spring, we’re here when you need us most.
